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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Find lower rental car prices at Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) with Road Genius. Find live rates for SUVs, compact cars, passenger vans and reserve with no booking fees. Compare on-airport brands like Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo and National, often 10-30 percent cheaper than rentals at Chicago O'Hare and grab your keys just steps from baggage claim. The compact RFD terminal means no rental shuttle, so you can hit I-90 toward Rockford, Madison or Chicago in minutes.
RFD offers on-site rental facilities through several major providers.
| Location Type | Available Options | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Airport (RFD) |
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| Downtown Rockford |
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On average, car rentals at Rockford Airport cost around $78 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $36 per day.
Compare RFD vs O'Hare: Rockford rentals are often 10-30 % cheaper than Chicago's ORD. Run both airports through the search and decide if the 80-mile (129 km) drive or $25 Van Galder bus is worth the savings.
Toggle pickup spots: Airport prices are low but downtown Rockford branches can be even lower on weekdays. Switch between "RFD Airport" and "Rockford City" in the comparison tool.
Avoid peak dates, not just book early: Prices jump during summer and holiday weeks. Shifting your trip by even a day outside those windows can slash the rate.
Test weekly vs daily rates: A "weekly" price at RFD can beat four separate daily rates. Enter both trip lengths before you click reserve.
| Location | Usual Costs | Things to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Rockford | Metered or garage fees may apply |
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| Rockford Airport (RFD) | Short-term spaces available at no charge for brief stays |
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| Shopping Areas | Generally free |
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Standard Illinois speed limits apply:
Book a car rental to drive to:
Rock Cut State Park – trails, Pierce Lake
Anderson Japanese Gardens – ponds, tea house
Galena – downtown, vineyards
Madison – Capitol Square, lakes
Starved Rock State Park – canyons, waterfalls
Chicago – museums, Navy Pier
Is free parking really available at Rockford Airport?
Yes. As of 2024, RFD provides free parking in its main lot for both short and long stays. Right now, you can park for up to 30 days, but be aware their policies can change. This is a big advantage over Chicago airports that charge high parking fees.
How does renting at RFD compare to renting at O'Hare?
When you rent at RFD, you'll usually find lower rates, fewer crowds and a faster pickup. On the other hand, O'Hare has more rental companies and more cars to choose from. Some people even take the bus from O'Hare to Rockford just to get a better deal on longer rentals.
What's the best vehicle for visiting Rockford and surrounding areas?
A standard sedan works well for most of the year. In the winter (December–February), you might want an all-wheel drive SUV if you plan to drive off the main highways. If you're taking scenic drives to Galena or Wisconsin, a comfortable midsize car or small SUV is great for the hills.
Are there toll roads around Rockford?
Yes. I-90 (Jane Addams Memorial Tollway) goes east from Rockford toward Chicago and it is a cash-free toll road. If you head to Chicago or the eastern suburbs, you'll pass through several toll plazas. We suggest you look into the rental company's toll program or use the Illinois Tollway's Pay By Plate service to register your rental car's plate.
Can I pick up a car at RFD and drop it off in Chicago?
Yes, many people rent a car one-way between Rockford and Chicago. You should expect to pay a one-way drop fee. The fee is different for each company and can be anywhere from $50 to $150, depending on their current need for cars.
What documentation do I need to rent a car at Rockford Airport?
You'll need a valid driver's license and a major credit card with your name on it. The rental company may ask you to show proof of insurance if you don't buy their coverage. If you are visiting from another country, you should bring your passport and may need an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English.
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